Uncertain times.
That phrase appears everywhere these days. Between the pandemic, political upheaval, social unrest, and concerns for the future, we can find ourselves desperate to find security—freedom from danger, fear, and anxiety.
But there is only one reliable source of security: God.
Out of his faithfulness to us, God always supplies what we need. And as it happens, the word FAITHFUL provides a tidy acrostic for eight blessings we enjoy–no matter what.
God is our:
Faithful promise-keeper. He is already ahead of us in the uncertainty of 2021, just as he went ahead of Joshua and the Israelites into Canaan. He has promised not to fail us or abandon us[1]—even when we cross dark valleys of troubling circumstances.
Attentive Father. Before we put our needs into words, God is on his way to meet it.[2]
Immutable (unchanging) Rock. He “does not change like shifting shadows.”[3] In a world where situations and relationships can change unexpectedly, God remains his rock-solid, reliable, perfect self.
Truth-Revealer. The truth of God’s Word has been proven through numerous disciplines and in the lives of millions. Within its pages we find the wisdom and support we need.[4]
“The remedy for discouragement is the Word of God.
When you feed your heart and mind with its truth,
You regain your perspective and find renewed strength.”
–Warren Wiersbe
Hope. Our God of hope fills us with all joy and peace as we trust him. Hope allows us to see his blessings even amid hardship, and know with certainty he will use even our painful circumstances to accomplish good.[5]
Foundation. God’s ways provide a strong foundation for life, especially when storms of sorrow come. He upholds us with his love and compassion, peace and comfort that transcend our ability to explain.[6]
Unerring and righteous Judge. “Your kingdom is founded on righteousness and justice,” wrote the psalmist, “love and faithfulness are shown in all you do.” And because he is righteous and just, everything will work toward the best outcome in the end.[7]
Light, even in dark times.[8] Too often we focus on the swirling blackness of circumstances around us. But “God’s lights in our dark nights are as numerous as the stars, if only we’ll look for them.”[9]
Throughout my years as a blogger, I’ve shared many experiences illustrating how God has been faithful to our family. One in particular comes to mind that encompassed all of the above blessings.
Leadership of our church denomination assigned my pastor-husband to another church across state. We were not ready to move. God ministered to me during those dark days of transition as I journaled through the psalms, affirming his love and compassion, peace and comfort. And as a result, hope began to blossom.
I grew in spiritual strength, compelled to rely on him through the grief of leaving beloved friends and the uncertainty of what lay ahead. He miraculously provided a teaching position for me not far from our new home. And in the end everything did work for good as that struggling church became a thriving community. (You can read a fuller account at After the Fact.)
In a book of liturgy, St. Teresa of Avila (1515-1582) kept a bookmark with the following affirmation:
“Let nothing disturb you; let nothing dismay you;
all things pass: God never changes.
Patience attains all it strives for.
He who has God finds he lacks nothing.
God only suffices.”
God only—in all the numerous demonstrations of his faithfulness–is our certain security.
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Should you wish to read more examples of God’s faithfulness, you can click on the following links:
Notes:
[1] Deuteronomy 31:6
[2] Matthew 6:8
[3] James 1:17c CSB
[4] Psalm 119:24, 140, 160
[5] Romans 15:13; 8:28
[6] Isaiah 54:10; Philippians 4:6-7
[7] Psalm 89:14 GNT; Genesis 50:20
[8] Psalm 27:1
[9] Max Lucado, Grace for the Moment (J. Countryman, 2000) p. 195
Art & photo credits: http://www.wikimedia.org; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pixy.org; http://www.heartlight.org.
From the Inside Out 
Thank you, Nancy.
You’re welcome! Thank you for stopping by, Carole.
Just what I needed to read today, thank you!!!
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Praise God for his timing–again! Thank you for stopping by, Laurie.
God is faithful, indeed, Nancy, and I’m leaning upon and trusting in Him more than ever in these present times. When I hope in Him, nothing on earth can prevail against me.
Blessings!
Amen, Martha: when we hope in Him, nothing on earth can prevail against us! (Remind me of that when I get discouraged, will you?!)
This is just what we need to hear today. Thank you, Nancy!
You’re welcome, Patty. Praise God for his timing! It’s one example of his attentiveness, isn’t it, that he ministers to us so precisely.
Yes, it is. I love how God meets us in every detail!
Amen. Christians are so divided these days, and politically so, about what God really asked of us and how to live a Christian life. Your post reminds us that no matter our denomination, politics or skin colour, God’s promises never change. For ever and ever, Amen.
Agreed, Cynthia. Sometimes we forget the family connection among ALL believers and what it means to live together in unity. Not that we must agree on everything, but we are called to respect one another. Unity should be a powerful testimony to the world that our faith in Jesus beautifully augments our lives (John 17:23).
Thank you, Nancy, for this timely and inspiring message. As usual, you hit the nail on the head and everyone who reads this post should be blessed immensely.
Thank you, Ruth–that’s my prayer: that these posts provide blessing to each reader!
very thought provoking and timely. God is our only certain that is for sure!
Thank you, Jean. Praise God for the certainty we enjoy in him. It is a monumental blessing!
Beautiful. ❤
Thank you, Anna. Praise God for his inspiration!
I found great comfort in this, Nancy. These times have been wearing on me physically and mentally. The perfect post for me right this minute. Praise God for His Faithfulness to his children.
How wonderful that, no matter how dark are circumstances may become, we need only turn our eyes upon Jesus! (Remember that wonderful old hymn?) And you are so right: we can always lift our spirits by praising God for his faithfulness to us!
You’re so right Nancy. The Psalms are such a source for finding God’s strength and tranquility. I too have found them a great help during times of change, stress, or fear. God’s word is always in season!
Amen, Sheila!
We do lean on God during times of stress such as now. Thank you for this good reminder to learn to find security in Him always.
You’re probably too young to remember the old hymn, “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms.” I didn’t think of it till now while reading your first sentence. The chorus includes: “Leaning on Jesus, Leaning on Jesus, Safe and secure from all alarms; Leaning on Jesus, leaning on Jesus, Leaning on the everlasting arms.” Those are good lyrics to hum throughout the day. Thank you, Laurie!
Thank you for sharing the example of God’s faithfulness and guidance within your own experience. The more we share these things, the more encouragement we gain!!!❤️
I’m so glad you found encouragement here Alicia. Thank you for taking the time to comment and for becoming a follower here!
😊looking forward to reading more of your posts!
Thank you, Alicia! I am honored.
[…] Certain Security […]
Thank you very much for linking to my posts. I am honored and praise God for his ongoing help and inspiration!
Hi Nancy,
Great timing. When mountains move it’s because the Lord is allowing it and using things to get our eyes back on Him. Hope you are doing well.
In Christ,
Gary
Amen, Gary–a worthy reminder! All IS well here; I hope the same for you and your family!
He’s got the whole crazy world in His hands…
Hallelujah for THAT!
Thanks, Nancy. Suit up!